Homemade Elderberry Syrup
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
45 mins
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Servings
48 tablespoons
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Calories
25 kcal
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Course
Condiments
Homemade Elderberry Syrup
Description
Homemade Elderberry Syrup uses dried elderberries combined with fresh ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to create a flavorful herbal remedy. These ingredients are simmered in water to extract their essence, with the elderberries being mashed during cooking to release more juice. After simmering and steeping, the mixture is strained to remove solids, then cooled before raw honey is incorporated to add natural sweetness and preserve the syrup. The resulting liquid is rich in spicy warmth and tart berry flavor.
Commonly taken as a prevention or treatment during cold and flu seasons, the syrup dosage varies, but generally adults consume one to two tablespoons multiple times daily while symptomatic. Children's doses should be reduced and used cautiously. This syrup should be refrigerated and can be used for at least two weeks. The inclusion of honey not only sweetens but also helps preserve the mixture and adds antimicrobial properties. Elderberry syrup pairs well with warm teas or can be taken neat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried elderberries quality
- 1/2 cup ginger chopped, peeled, fresh
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 teaspoons cloves ground
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup raw honey local if possible; raw buckwheat honey has highest antioxidant levels; non-raw is sugar with no health benefits
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients, except for the honey, in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil then reduce the heat to a low simmer and simmer uncovered for approx. 30 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by roughly half (though that much isn't necessary). Use a fork or potato masher to mash the berries.
- Let the mixture steep for a few minutes, the strain the liquid through a fine sieve or cheesecloth and mash or squeeze the solids to release as much liquid as possible. You can also use a food mill. Let the liquid cool until room temperature (no hotter than lukewarm) and then stir in the honey. Makes about 3 cups.
- Store in the refrigerator. Will keep for at least 2 weeks.
- There is no standard dose for elderberry syrup. Adults trying to prevent a cold or flu can take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day and increase it to 2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day to treat a cold or flu until the symptoms disappear. Decrease the dose for children. If giving to children it's always best to consult your pediatrician.IMPORTANT NOTE: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends not giving raw honey to infants younger than 12 months.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 48tablespoons
Amount Per Serving
Calories 25 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1tablespoon | |
| Calories | 25kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.